DeMar DeRozan made history for the Chicago Bulls in a thrilling 133-129 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Bulls’ winning streak comes to an end. After four consecutive victories, Chicago was defeated by the Milwaukee Bucks on the road. The first half witnessed an excellent match, with a dominant offensive display, allowing the home team to score 74 points and take a nine-point lead.
However, Chicago managed to impose its rhythm on the game, thanks to the brilliant performance of DeMar DeRozan. On his shoulders, the visitors leveled the score, forcing the game into overtime. There, the experience of the Bucks in crucial moments prevailed, and Giannis Antetokounmpo and his team returned to the winning track after a loss to the Indiana Pacers.
Giannis Antetokounmpo was the top scorer for the winning team with 32 points and 12 rebounds. Malik Beasley and Brook Lopez added 19 points each. On the other side, DeRozan scored 41 points and dished out 11 assists, becoming the second player in Chicago NBA history, alongside Michael Jordan, to record 40+ points and 10+ assists in a single game.
Los Angeles Clippers secured a 132-127 victory against the Portland Trail Blazers on their home court.
The impressive form of the Los Angeles team continues. We all know how turbulent the previous period was for the Clippers, but it seems that a renaissance began in December. A winning streak started with a victory against the Golden State Warriors, and it currently stands at four. In the first quarter against Portland, they gained a double-digit lead, which they relinquished, mainly due to the outstanding performance of Anfernee Simons, who brought the game back to a tie in the second quarter after 24 minutes.
In the third quarter, the Clippers again played better, led by Kawhi Leonard, creating a five-point lead. In a match like this, during that period, it was a significant advantage. That proved to be the final difference, as the hosts managed to consistently maintain the mentioned lead and repel all potential attacks from Portland.
Kawhi Leonard led the winning team with 34 points, while Paul George and James Harden each added 20. On the other side, Simons scored 38 points.